Definition

A type of chemical compound that consists of carbon and hydrogen, characterized by having at least one triple bond between carbon atoms.

Example

Acetylene is the simplest alkyne, consisting of two carbon atoms connected by a triple bond.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of an alkyne before?

Yeah, I think it's a type of hydrocarbon, right?

Exactly! It has a carbon-carbon triple bond, which is pretty cool.

I find it fascinating how different hydrocarbons can be.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Alkyne is formed from "alk" (from Arabic *al-kuḥl*, meaning the kohl or black powder) and "-yne" (from Greek *ynē*, meaning to form or produce). The term refers to a type of hydrocarbon characterized by a carbon-carbon triple bond, thus relating to its structure and formation.

Memory Tip

Think of 'alk' relating to a specific type of compound and '-yne' indicating a particular structure, which helps you remember that an alkyne is a type of hydrocarbon with a triple bond.

Visually Confused Words